I Am An Abstract With Purpose

 

I AM ....

DETACHED

Free from expectation, I grow with each moment, releasing what no longer serves me. Detachment grants clarity—freedom not as escape, but as space to grow. I am a thread woven into existence, a living canvas where each stroke tells the story of my life.

 

CONNECTED

Rooted in strength, I draw energy from the world around me. The universe moves through me, steady and constant. I rise, endure, and move forward with purpose. Even in solitude, I am never alone…woven from stardust, connected to the cosmos, a reflection of something greater. My light reaches beyond me, illuminating unseen paths for myself and others.

 

I AM ....

GRIEVING

Loss shapes me, but it does not define me. I carry sorrow with dignity, honoring the love that remains. Grief reveals my depth—my ability to feel, remember, and cherish. Through the ache, I find meaning; in tears, I discover healing. I mourn, yet move forward, carrying the light of those I have lost within me.

 

COURAGEOUS

I face the unknown with an open heart, knowing that every challenge, fall, and doubt is another step toward becoming. Strength is not the absence of fear but the willingness to walk through it. I stand firm, press on with grit, and rise—always, I rise.

  

I AM ....

FEARFUL

Fear does not weaken me; it fortifies me. It is the shadow that makes my light shine brighter, the challenge that calls forth my courage. I acknowledge my fear but do not bow to it. Step by step, I move forward, proving that even in uncertainty, I am resilient.

 

POWERFUL

My strength is steady, my presence unwavering. Power is not just force—it is the quiet certainty within, the relentless spirit that refuses to break. I am resilience in motion, a creator of possibility, limitless in potential. I carve my own path

  

I AM ....

AGING

Every line on my face tells a story, every step carries the wisdom of experience. Time refines, strengthens, and deepens my purpose, connecting me to my soul’s essence. I walk through life’s changing seasons, knowing that each moment enriches my spirit and affirms my truth.

 

INSPIRING

My journey extends beyond myself—it radiates outward, illuminating the way for others. Through my strength, struggles, and triumphs, I become a guiding light for those seeking their own truth. I live boldly, love deeply, and rise with unwavering determination. My presence ignites hope, my words and art inspire courage, and my essence embodies strength and grace.

 

 ***

THE ART OF BECOMING ... AN ABSTRACT WITH PURPOSE

I am all of these things…fluid yet grounded, vulnerable yet strong, grieving yet courageous.  I Am An Abstract With Purpose, constantly evolving, shaping my existence with intention. A fusion of light and depth, I move through time with tenacity, leaving a lasting imprint on the world around me.   Laurel D. Rund

Quiet Discoveries: Awakening My Inner Magnificence

I recently participated in a guided meditation that took me on a journey to a quiet realm of self-discovery and inner calm. The session began with deep, intentional breathing and gentle instructions that helped me let go of daily distractions and enter a space of mindful presence.

 

As I relaxed, I visualized a small stream winding its way through a peaceful forest. The water, illuminated by soft sunlight filtering through the leaves, created a setting that was both simple and profoundly soothing. Standing by the stream, I listened to the gentle murmur of the water and the subtle rustle of leaves—a natural invitation to sink deeper into inner calm.

 

In that reflective moment, I looked into the clear water and saw more than just my physical image. I recognized my own magnificence—a powerful reminder of the strength and beauty that reside within me. This insight filled me with gratitude and hope, reaffirming that every pause and every mindful breath can help uncover the limitless potential within.

 

What made the meditation truly meaningful was its ability to connect me with both the natural world and my inner self. It was a reminder that moments of stillness are opportunities to embrace clarity, renew our purpose, and rediscover our inner light.

 

May this reflection inspire you to pause, breathe, and explore the depths of your own being, discovering the radiant energy that lights your way every day.

Within the Heart: A Light-Filled Transformation

Deep within the heart, beyond the noise of the world and the weight of expectation, there exists a sacred cocoon—a place of stillness, woven from love, hope, and the quiet magic of transformation. It is here, in this tender sanctuary, that your soul prepares for flight.  

Though the world may spin with urgency, within, there is peace. A space where you are held, nurtured, and known. This cocoon is not a prison; it is a promise. It does not rush the butterfly’s arrival, nor does the seed demand the flower to bloom before its time.  

You, too, are evolving in ways unseen, in rhythms beyond measure. Growth is happening, even in the stillness. And within that stillness, light gathers—soft, radiant, eternal. With each breath of trust, the walls of your cocoon soften, making way for the wings you have yet to discover. 

 

And then—one day, effortlessly, as if answering an ancient call—you will rise. You will stretch toward the light, realizing it was within you all along. And in that moment, you will step fully into the brilliance of who you are.  

Laurel D. Rund

The Light Within

As the New Year unfolds, I feel the steady, profound glow of the light within me. It is a light that has deepened with time—not the fleeting spark of youth, but a lasting flame, strengthened by wisdom and formed by the experiences that have shaped me. This light carries the story of my journey, the lessons I’ve embraced, and the love I’ve both received and shared.

At this stage of life, as an elder, I am called to honor this radiant light—not merely as a gift, but as a sacred responsibility. It is my guide, and it shines for others who may seek its warmth. This light holds the essence of all I’ve learned, the strength I’ve nurtured, and the spiritual connection that binds me to my divine source.

Now is the time for reflection, deeper growth, and for celebrating the fullness of who I am—both human and spiritual, finite and infinite. My light isn’t diminished by age; rather, it is refined and magnified by the truths I’ve uncovered and the love I’ve cultivated. With each passing year, it grows clearer, warmer, and more powerful.

As I step into this New Year, I move forward with intention, grace, and profound trust in this inner light. It will guide not only my own path but will radiate outward, illuminating the way for others. This light is a reminder that my growth is ever unfolding, and the wisdom I’ve gained will serve as a guiding force for the journey ahead. 

Laurel D. Rund

Radiance - My 2025 White Stone Word

This year, I choose to embody light—steady, kind, and unwavering. Radiance isn’t about being flawless; it’s about showing up with presence and intention. It’s embracing who I am, letting go of what dims my spirit, and standing confidently in my truth.

 

Radiance is cultivated through small, meaningful acts: pausing to breathe, finding joy in the everyday, and extending kindness when it’s least expected. It’s about aligning with my purpose, staying connected to what matters most, and trusting that my light has the power to inspire others.

 

In 2025, I’ll let my light guide me through challenges and remind me of the beauty in every moment. By choosing to reflect the divine within, I hope to illuminate those around me and encourage others to do the same.

Laurel D. Rund

Meet Me Where I Am

 

This past year, my 78th, has been challenging with numerous physical ailments and constraints weighing me down, leaving me feeling vulnerable and inert. Yet, when I connect with my inner core and true essence, age becomes meaningless. The God-centered energy within me is eternal and resilient.

Instead of mourning who I was earlier in life, I embrace the ageless and healthy divine being within. It’s time to celebrate both my human and spiritual forms and meet myself where I am. This journey has taught me that my physical body is not my entirety. Each wrinkle and ache is a testament to my life, but they don’t define my spirit.

My soul remains vibrant and full of potential. This inner light, this divine spark, is my quintessence and source of strength, propelling me forward despite physical trials. Recognizing the boundless energy within me serves as my anchor and resilience, reminding me that I am whole, even when my body feels fragmented.

I choose to celebrate the harmony between my physical and spiritual forms. I am not defined by years but by the eternal presence within me. This perspective allows me to transcend struggles and embrace each day with gratitude and grace. In this space of acceptance and celebration, I am free—free to explore the depths of my being, express my true self, and live fully in the present moment.

Meeting myself where I am involves accepting my current reality without judgment. It means recognizing that every stage of life holds its own beauty and significance. By celebrating both my human and spiritual forms, I deepen my connection to myself and the divine—self-love and acceptance nurture my soul and enrich my life's journey.

Laurel D. Rund 

July 2024

The Path of Self-Discovery by Laurel D. Rund

Exploring the path of self-discovery is like taking a journey filled with moments of understanding and insight. Words and images act as stepping stones, helping me through uncertain times and guiding me to a better understanding of myself. Imagine these words as beacons, lighting the way. Alongside them, there are images that flutter like butterflies, carrying inspiration. They show me parts of myself I might not have noticed before, making this a bit like a special adventure within.

With each step along this path, I delve deeper into the essence of who I am. It's like unfolding a map of my own emotions and beliefs. The journey extends beyond the quest for answers; it's a continuous exploration of new questions. The words and images work together, helping me get closer to my inner self.  Every step I take becomes a chance to learn and understand, creating a picture of who I am inside ... a unique divine being.

Laurel D. Rund - 3/2024

The Grip of Darkness - by Laurel D. Rund

I created this drawing several years ago.   It has always had something to say to me, but I wasn't ready for its message because it felt "dark."  Yesterday, I sat down and really looked at the image, explored how it made me feel and allowed these questions and answers to come forth.  

Your hold is tight, and I have fought your darkness throughout my life.
How do I befriend you, the very thing that threatens to extinguish my flame?
What lessons do you want me to learn so that you will loosen your grip?
Is it about loss and fear, about being abandoned?
I chose this life, so I must have wanted you to accompany me.
Perhaps your grip is meant to protect me from the depths.
When I die, will you journey through time alongside me, back to the stars?
Will you transform into a black hole, a cosmic presence that stays with me?
Are you my forever companion in the infinite universe?

As my soul contemplated these questions, a profound realization washed over it like a gentle breeze. The Grip of Darkness was not an adversary to be vanquished but a mentor, a guide through the intricate corridors of life. In its grip, my soul learned the art of tenacity, the beauty of courage, and the power of perseverance.

In choosing this life, I invited the Grip of Darkness to accompany me, understanding on a profound level that its presence is not a burden but a blessing. It becomes my shield in moments of despair, reminding me of the inherent strength and resilience that resides within my very core. I’ve learned to face my fears and insecurities, finding solace in the knowledge that even in the darkest moments, my inner light will prevail.

“Yes," my soul whispered "You embrace darkness not in an evil way, but as a guardian, a silent witness to your journey. Together you share your light, not to extinguish it, but to understand it, to illuminate the very essence of your being."

With a sigh as ancient as time itself, the Grip of Darkness responded, its voice echoing through the cosmos. "When you depart from this earthly realm, I will journey with you, back to the stars from whence you came. I shall become a black hole, a silent sentinel standing guard beside you, a companion in the infinite expanse of the universe."

The Grip of Darkness, often misunderstood, revealed itself as a teacher, a companion, and a friend. Its lessons, veiled in shadows, helped unravel the mysteries of my existence, guiding me in this final chapter of my life towards self-discovery and acceptance. 

The answer lies in the eternal connection we share with the universe. The darkness becomes a part of the cosmic dance, guiding us back to the celestial realms from whence we came.

In the tapestry of life, it has become a thread, weaving through my experiences and reminding me that in the depths of darkness, my light shines the brightest.

The Grip of Darkness by Laurel D. Rund 

November 8th, 2023

Celebrating My 78th Year: Embracing the Beauty Beneath My Birthday Suit

 

by Laurel Diane Rund

As I approach my 78th year, I stand at the intersection of time and wisdom, where the true essence of my being lies beneath the layers of years lived, experiences gained, and memories cherished. It's a remarkable journey that deserves to be celebrated, not only for the years I've accumulated but for the woman I am.

As I walk through the twilight of my years, I wear my wrinkles and scars like badges of honor. Each line, each mark, tells a tale of a life well-lived, a journey through the seasons of joy, sorrow, and everything in between. A story that continues to unfold, a reminder that, beneath the surface, the essence of a person is a rich tapestry woven with the threads of time, of experiences, memories, and an enduring spirit.

In a world often fixated on superficial appearances, there's something profoundly beautiful about the aging process. It's a reminder that life is a masterpiece in progress. Each wrinkle and age spot is a mark of the laughter and tears that have shaped my heart and soul.

The creases around my eyes are like chapters in a book, written in the language of smiles and laughter. They speak of the friendships forged, of shared moments that now shimmer like distant stars in the night sky. And the furrows on my forehead, bear witness to the challenges faced, the lessons learned, and the strength gained through the trials of life.

Beneath my aged skin lies the music of a heart that has known both the sweet symphony of love 's embrace and the melancholy notes of goodbye. It beats in rhythm with the passing of time, a testament to resilience, endurance, and the ever-present hope for tomorrow. 

The unique inner beauty which radiates from my soul deserves celebration.  It's the kindness I've shown, the love I've shared, and the wisdom I've gained. It's the way I've touched the lives of others, leaving a trail of warmth and inspiration wherever I go.

 

My birthday suit, far from being just the physical vessel that carries me through life, is a testament to my determination and endurance. It is the canvas upon which my life's masterpiece is painted.  I wear my birthday suit with pride, not just the one I was born in but the one that carries the imprints of my life's journey. I remember that I am a living testament to the beauty of resilience, the grace of aging, and the richness of my life.  I celebrate the laughter that still echoes in my heart, the dreams that continue to light my path, and the love that fills my days.

Let my inner light shine brightly and may my 78th year be a celebration of the unique person I am, both inside and out. Happy birthday to my beautiful soul!

I Am Stardust and Stardust is Me

 

As I sit here and reflect on my life, I can't help but feel a sense of wonder and awe. It's amazing to think that we are all made of stardust, the same stuff that makes up the stars and galaxies that we see in the night sky. It's a reminder that we are all connected, not just to each other but to the entire universe.

And yet, as much as we are made of stardust, we are also much more than that. We have an essence, a unique combination of traits and qualities that make us who we are. It's this essence that makes us individuals, with our own thoughts, feelings, and experiences. It's what sets us apart from each other and gives us our own unique perspective on the world.

At the same time, this essence is also what connects us to each other and to the universe. We are all part of the same cosmic dance, moving and shifting together in ways that are both beautiful and mysterious. It's a reminder that we are all in this together, and that we all play a part in the grand scheme of things.

And when our time on this earth comes to an end, we return to stardust once again. Our physical bodies may be gone, but our essence lives on in the memories of those we leave behind, and in the universe itself. It's a comforting thought, knowing that we are part of something much bigger than ourselves, and that our essence will continue on in some way, shape, or form.

"We are travelers on a cosmic journey, stardust, swirling and dancing in the eddies and whirlpools of Infinity. Life is Eternal. We have stopped for a moment to encounter each other, to meet, to love, to share. This is a precious moment. It is a little parenthesis in Eternity.”     Paulo Coelho

As I continue to reflect on my life and my place in the universe, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and wonder, am grateful for this gift of life, for the experiences I've had, and for the connections I've made with others. 

I am in awe of the beauty and mystery of the universe, and the way that we are all connected to each other and to the stardust that makes up everything around us.  With this is mind, I finally understand that We Are All One.

Laurel D. Rund

I am stardust, and stardust is me 

A unique expression, of the cosmic dance

A trillion particles, come together as One 

It radiates from me, with every breath I take

A source of energy, with light embedded

That will return to the stars and shine on for Eternity.

 

"Only Hearts" Art/Peace Project - with Dwij David Gittens

“The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. 

The second best time is now.” 

Chinese Proverb

“Only Hearts” Art/Peace Project 

Students, Teachers, and Parents, sharing in a Vision of Peace

Peace is loving with a reason • Peace is living with care • Peace is healing • Peace is surrounding us with an open heart and Peace ends the violence and wars in our society.—Nikky Welch / 1999

The “Only Hearts” Art/Peace Project, inspired by 3,500 Sarasota, FL students as a millennium peace project, offers a format through which students of all ages can share their ideas and action steps towards world peace, cross-cultural harmony, and conciliation.

The original project begins with the participants painting their vision of the world they want to create inside our heart template. On the back they are asked to write about how they will achieve their goal. A next step, using their talents in the arts, sciences or humanities, students are asked to score a presentation for their school and/or their community. http://onlyhearts.org

A new component: An art-assemblage project available in 21+ languages. Participants of all ages are asked to write one word in the center of their heart project download that represents what they want to manifest for the Well-Being of themselves, family, and community. This is a process that highlights the power of personal and collective visioning.  http://Love-it.today

Conceived by artist/designer Dwij David Gittens, these are educational, empowering and insightful activities that are FREE to DOWNLOAD from the Internet for use in classrooms, after-school programs, and by cultural organizations. Successfully used around the world, the President of John F. Kennedy University in Buenos Aires, Argentina wrote “We consider that the Only Hearts Art/Peace Project is of great interest and social, cultural and academic relevance and recommend it to private and public organizations both national, provincial and municipal to do the same.”

The “Only Hearts” art/peace project has been used by thousands of participants around the world; linking with others who are weaving a global matrix of peace and conciliation. “Hearts Around the World” is our vision for an ongoing exhibit that reflects this intention.

Our quest as we launch this renewed “Only Hearts” Art/Peace Project website is to reconnect with a larger audience of young peacemakers and also to meet-up with the students from our seventeen-years-ago launch, discovering how their dreams of yesterday match with how they vision the world today . . . and what they are teaching their children about peace and conciliation.

Thank you for your support and sponsorship,   

dwij – David Gittens

About dwij - David Gittens

Dwij - David Gittens is a Sarasota based artist/designer who has worked on projects in many cultures. His Only Hearts Art/Peace Project, a collaborative creation that articulates the insights and visions of 3,500 Sarasota students on the topic of world peace, cross cultural harmony, and conciliation, is used by educators, students and parents around the world. The project was begun as an inspirational grassroots undertaking in 1999 for the millennium. 

The links to the, FREE TO DOWNLOAD, Only Hearts Art/Peace Projects are:

http://Onlyhearts.org and http://Love-it.today

David's bio/accomplishments can be explored on: 

https://www.dwij.org/about_us/dwij_projects.htm

For information contact David Gittens at: dwijveena@gmail.com

Click here to read the 2/21/2021 Article in the Herald Tribune:   Sarasota artist/inventor David Gittens continues his crusade for world peace

The Gift of Age by Laurel D. Rund

As a gift to myself just before my 70th birthday, I attended the Hay House Orlando “I Can Do It” conference. For me, it was a meaningful and inspirational time, which included a poignant memorial service for Dr. Wayne Dyer who had just passed away – he was scheduled to be the opening night keynote speaker.

I have wanted to write about one particular experience I had at the conference for quite some time, but felt stuck, unable to put into words a description of my transformative soul retrieval journey led by Dr. Alberto Villoldo, Ph.D.* Dr.Villoldo explained to the audience that a soul retrieval journey is a time where one enters into a sacred space to heal the past and chart a new destiny. 

After conducting some rituals with the audience, it was time for us to quiet down and go into a meditative state.With my eyes closed and in response to the guided meditation, I was led to a path in the woods, where at the entry of the path, we were told that a power animal would meet us. A large buck greeted me, and as I focused my eyes on this strong, superb animal – it suddenly morphed into a hawk who spread his wings and guided me through the woods to a clearing. 

I was asked to sit down on a rock in the center of the clearing and wait. Dr.Villoldo said that a spirit would appear behind me, and to feel its presence. I slowly turned around to greet this entity. Upon turning I saw an elderly Native American woman with braids; her face glowing with kindness, crinkled, caring eyes, and a gentle smile. Her loving energy enveloped me and entered my heart. I reached over and felt compelled to trace my fingers across the wrinkles on her face and around her eyes, which felt like I was following a map of her life. The shaman asked us to walk away from the clearing with our spirit and to return home through the forest path. 

But, before leaving the forest, Dr. Villoldo directed the participants on this soul retrieval journey to transmute and absorb our power animals and spirit into our beings. The hawk, the buck, and the Wise Old Woman morphed into my human form and spirit. I then left the forest and was guided back to the present moment – the soul retrieval was over. 
I felt peaceful, calm and wondered what did this all mean? My intuition told me that I had retrieved my “wise old woman” – my WOW as a lesson about recognizing  the strength, wisdom, gentleness and grace that lies within me. It was about honoring my age.

When I returned home from the conference, there was urgency within me to create an image of what I had seen, and then to write about the experience. The soul retrieval journey was emblazoned in my head and heart, and set a tone of acceptance and joy for me as I stepped into my seventh decade with gratitude.  "The afternoon knows what the morning never suspected.”   Robert Frost

I felt exhilarated when the recreation of what I saw during the soul retrieval journey came to life.  It hangs on a wall in my house and has great meaning to me.   But, each time I put pen to paper to write about the experience, I felt blocked.  Somehow I knew that there was an unseen purpose for this story and that I needed to be patient until it showed itself to me.

Woman of Wisdom (WOW)

The Epiphany

One morning, at least three months after the conference, while driving my car through an area that is populated with lush moss-filled oak trees, I had an epiphany.I slowed my car down – as I always do when passing under the arch of these glorious trees – and greeted them tenderly with a “hello trees!” There is something about this particular street which has “talked to me” since I first drove through it several years ago.   I never fail to purposefully slow my car down and greet the trees, taking time to be present with them and to honor their magnificence.  It always leaves me with a sense of peacefulness and gratitude.  It makes my heart feel good.

As I drove on,  I began to think about the dichotomy between how we see trees and “see” our elders.  The purpose for this piece had finally percolated up;  it literally showed itself to me and my writing block was lifted!  

It’s interesting how many people have come to love and honor trees.   I know several devoted tree huggers. People have sat in trees for months to protect them from destruction. As they get older, trees reach across to each other and their branches touch – intertwine. They share their energy, their power and offer a place for humans to be shaded and rest under their glorious limbs. They build a community. And, there are many stories held within each tree – what it encountered as it grew into maturity.

“Trees are sanctuaries. Whoever knows how to speak to them, whoever knows how to listen to them, can learn the truth. They do not preach learning and precepts, they preach, undeterred by particulars, the ancient law of life.” Hermann Hesse

When we pass a tree that has become glorious in its old age, we look at that tree in awe as we revere its strength and beauty whether or not its bark is missing or cracked, or its branches broken off.

Here’s the epiphany - I believe we humans are very much like trees. We show our age with wrinkles, changes in our bodies and its imperfections. And yet, as we grow older we, too, have a community to build and a story to share.  Our culture, however, has often stated that when people get older they are “past their prime” and become invisible. Maybe it makes some people uncomfortable with their own aging process, or maybe heartlessness has replaced caring.

There are many lessons to be shared and taught by our elders. Our society all too often disregards the journeys and stories of the aged, and places its attention on youthfulness. Yes, life is about hope, youth and building a life, but it is also about the wisdom one has gained throughout the years.

Gabriel Garci-a-Marquez, author of “Love in the Time of Cholera” said about the essence of aging:  “Age has no reality except in the physical world. The essence of a human being is resistant to the passage of time.  Our inner lives are eternal, which is to say that our spirits remain as youthful and vigorous as when we were in full bloom.

Being an elder, a Woman of Wisdom, a WOW, has given me a new perspective about aging. I’ve learned as I moved into my seventies that what you feel like inside your human form has nothing to do with the date of your birth. My spiritual being is ageless. 

Just like my gray hair, wrinkles, aches and pains, life is filled with joy, growth, challenges, heartaches and bumps in the road. These are the things that build our character, wisdom and courage.  This is how we learn and grow, and find our purpose.

Each day, year and decade should be honored. Very much like the rings within the trunk of a tree, they represent and record the events which we have experienced on this journey called life.

Today, go hug a tree and then talk with and hug an Elder.   For all of us – being talked with, touched and hugged is a heartfelt and essential part of life. Experience the gift of age! "Beautiful young people are accidents of nature, but beautiful old people are works of art." Eleanor Roosevelt

My very best,   Laurel Diane Rund

Jean Houston on the Beauty of Aging with Oprah Winfrey 

All things are bound together. All things connect.

The Universe is giving us Another Chance for Transformation - so let us take this time to shift our inner and outer world and go beyond our current reality.

This I know for sure ... we will get through today's health and financial crisis.  Right now our world feels upside down, surreal and apocalyptic.  My belief is that there is light at the end of the tunnel, and when we come out of the Covid-19 health crisis, the human race will be less self-centered and separated from one-another.  

Self isolation has created time for reflection;  an appreciation for that which is less material and more meaningful - such as family, friendships and the heroes who have put their life on the front line to do good and be of service.  

Witnessing the kindness and courage of strangers gives me faith in our human race.  There will be a new normal, and I choose to believe it will be a more connected and loving one. 

As Chief Seattle said: "Humankind has woven the web of life.  We are one thread within it.
Whatever we do to the web, we do to ourselves. All things are bound together. All things connect."

Namaste, Laurel

The Glory of Trees

In 2009, I attended an art class and one of the assignments was to go outside to draw a real-life tree. There was a tree on the golf course behind our home which was a favorite of mine. I would sit on the lanai and watch it stand tall during all kinds of weather conditions - from sunshine to lightning storms. In my mind's eye, that was the tree I immediately knew I was going to draw when I got home.

Drawing paper and pencil in hand, I went out to get a closer view of the tree in order to draw it.  My heart sunk when I couldn't find what I had come to call "my tree." Unbeknownst to me, It had been taken down and replaced with an ordinary palm tree.

This came at a time of personal loss for me, the death of my first husband. Loss comes in all kinds of shapes and the loss of that tree added more grief to my already hurting heart.

Crestfallen, but knowing I had to complete the art assignment, I searched for a photograph of the tree and proceeded to draw it from a photograph  and memory. When you look the piece I created, the tree in the middle is the drawing and the photograph is on either side of the tree. 

As so often happens after a piece of art is created, I felt compelled to write a poem. Thus, Strength and Glory - Elegy to a Tree was birthed.  

Upon presenting the poem and artwork to my art teacher;  she said this would influence and transform how she would assign a tree drawing to future students.  Whether that actually is the case is not the story.....The tree is the real story – I will always honor its life, its strength and its glory. Laurel D. Rund

Note: this poem and artwork is in my book Emerging Voices Living On: A Journey Through Loss to Renewal https://essenceoflaurel.com/emerging-voices and the artwork can be found on either my Etsy site  or Essence of Laurel site. Enjoy ...

Strength and Glory 

 Elegy to a Tree

Welcoming all to a vision of grandeur, 

you stood tall and proud with your trunk rooted firmly in the ground

and your limbs reaching towards the heavens.

I watched in awe as playful birds rested on your bare branches,

and marveled when your sparse limbs were 

 illuminated by gleaming sunbeams.

You withstood the force of fierce winds ~ unrestrained rainstorms,

and seemed to revel as lightning danced raggedly around you.

During your life, your spirit was one of

beauty, dignity, grace and, above all, courage.

Suddenly, one day, you disappeared!

 Thoughtlessly cut down to fulfill 

man’s need for youthful perfection,

a rather unremarkable seedling replaced you.

Perhaps it was time for your journey to

come to an end and for a new life to begin?

Nonetheless, your loss was jarring.

Oh grand tree~ know that

 the image of your magnificentstrength and glory

 will always have a home within my soul!

Laurel D. Rund